The latest round of a bursary programme aimed at helping young Wearsiders access opportunities to develop their creativity has been launched.
Culture Start introduced its Ignite Bursary Programme last year to support young people in Sunderland achieve their potential in the world of arts and culture.
The Ignite Bursary offers up to £500 for creative young people in Sunderland aged 12–18 (or up to 25 for those with SEN/D) who are facing financial or circumstantial hardship. The funding can be used for things like arts materials, creative software, training, travel to work experience, building portfolios or websites, or renting creative spaces such as studios.
This, the third round of the bursary programme, closes on Thursday, May 7.
Culture Start Producer Lucy Rees-Harris said: “We’re delighted to launch the third round of our Ignite Bursary scheme and excited to support the future of our young creatives in Sunderland.
“The Ignite Bursary is a wonderful opportunity to kickstart that journey. You can apply for up to £500 to fund anything from equipment and supplies to tickets for shows and gigs—whatever you need to develop your skills and get that helping hand.
“By providing practical, financial support, we’re sending a clear message to our young people: we believe in you and your creative potential.”
Applicants need to live in Sunderland and be able to show a strong interest in the creative arts. An application guide, which includes criteria, can be found here https://www.sunderlandculture.org.uk/projects-partnerships/culture-start/ignite-bursary/
Ignite Bursary recipient Vincent Wilson, 16, said: “It was brilliant when I got the Ignite Bursary. I can access anything music wise a lot easier now. I can get what I need instead of what I can afford. I’ve been able to pay for a really good amp and guitar lessons. The grants help young people be who they want to be.”
Former Sunderland College student Ellie Brown was a recipient of an Ignite Bursary last year. Ellie, who completed a BTEC in Media Production at the college, said: “When I heard about the bursary from my teacher, I knew I had to jump at the chance so I could invest in my own videography equipment.
“I successfully applied for a bursary to purchase video equipment, instead of having to loan equipment from the college. This has given me much more freedom. It was well worth it as I got money to invest in myself and my career.”
Culture Start is led by Sunderland Culture on behalf of a partnership of organisations across the city. Ignite Bursaries are supported by the Gillian Dickinson Trust and the Esmeé Fairbairn Foundation.
